Many thanks for all the suggestions and hints on preparing the styrofoam base.  I'll print this out for a future reference.

Jesse

Thanks, Sid.  I'll swing by Lowes tomorrow and pickup some 'light' dirt colored latex. 

Jesse

On a scenery kit, I am told to paint the styrofoam base an earthtone color, but the instructions fail to say what kind of paint.

I am new at scenery so I could use some advice.  I would hate to put the wrong stuff on and melt the foam base.

Thanks,

Jesse

I find the conflict in names to be most interesting.  My first love and career was that of a flyer....I have only recently become involved with model railroading as a hobby.

We in the field of aviation have the same conflict.  Is it Airlines or Airways.  For example:  we have American Airlines, Continental Airlines, Delta Airlines, United Airlines.....but on the other hand, we have U.S. Airways, Republic Airways, British Airways, Cathay Pacific Airways etc.  It could go on and on, but I just wanted to point out that the Rail Industry is not alone in this.

Jesse

I don't have a photo of the box car, but my late Son-in-law worked for Southern.  He sent me this photo of the Southern Logo several years ago. I have no idea where the patch is now, but you are welcome to this if you can use it.

Jesse

 Thanks for all the helpful hints and tips.  I had a post on the general topics page and Mr. Bachmann tells me that the EZ Track system comes with a section of track that has already been gapped.  I think I will go that route instead of trying to make like a dentist and pull the teeth out of the rails   All I need to do now is find that section in my catalog.

Jesse

I have a question for The Bachmann, but will accept help from anyone.  How  are Bachmann EZ Track sections configured so you can have insulated blocks and turn outs.  Can any manufacturer's plastic insulators be used on EZ Track?

Jesse

Thanks, Bob and Lanny.  But this brings up another question from a newbie.  Just how does Bachmann arrange their EZ Track to support blocks and insulated turnouts, etc....a puzzlement for sure.  With their reputation and the number of modlers using EZ Track, this must have come up before in a forum or two.

Jesse

Before someone tells me to look in the catalog....been there; done that

I would like to know if Bachmann makes the little plastic rail insulators used for creating traffic blocks, etc.  I am using exclusively the Bachmann EZ Track system; also, are the insulators made by other mfgrs compatible with EZ Track.  Thanks,

Jesse

Thanks, Bob.  I'll order a couple of the switch machines and get them installed.

Jesse

Thanks, Nigel.  That clears up my question.  I noticed in the article that the switch machine was placed in the center between the rails and had an acctuating lever.  It looks like the pilot engages the lever and causes the switch to throw.

Jesse

I just read an article in the current issue of Model Railroad magazine about a 'Tortise Switch' manufactured by Circuitron.  Can someone please tell me what this switch is used for.  It is described as a 'slow motion' switch.  I doubt if I will need one but I am curious as to what it does.

Jesse

Thanks, Harold.  Problem solved...BTW, How did you know I drive a Ferrari?

I've been told there are no dumb questions, but I imagine this could be a first....as a newbie, I am still in the learning process concerning DCC and sound addon.  My Bachmann engine does not have DCC installed, so my question is...should I have that installed before adding the Soundtraxx Tsunami in the tender?

Jesse

Harold, I'll put everything on the back burner until you come out with your new project.

Thanks,
Jesse